There are several instances in life where the devil is very much in the detail, and the small things can make a substantial difference. Interior design is one such area, and making a seemingly insignificant change can totally transform the look and feel of a space.
When it comes to the bathroom, creativity can be a struggle; there are only so many ways you can make your toilet look glamorous! There are, however, alterations and choices you can make which can totally upgrade the look of your fittings, and choosing the right bathroom faucet is a crucial part of this.
The 7 Best Bathroom Faucets:
- PARLOS Two-Handle Bathroom Sink Faucet
- Moen Eva Centerset 6410BN Bathroom Faucet
- BWE Single HandleWaterfall Spout Faucet for Bathroom
- Delta B3596LF-OB Windemere Widespread Bathroom Faucet
- Phiestina WF008-5-BN 3 Hole Bathroom Faucet
- Moen 6610ORB Brantford Two-Handle Low Arc Bathroom Faucet
- PARLOS Swivel Spout 2-handle Lavatory Faucet
Buying Guide: How To Choose The Right Bathroom Faucet
Not all faucets are created equal, and we are dedicated to helping you make the right selection to build and craft your ideal bathroom finish. With this in mind, we have put together a selection of the best bathroom faucets; read on for our ultimate guide to help you choose, and enjoy a superior bathroom design!
Faucet Size
The first thing to consider when upgrading to the best bathroom faucet is the size of your sink; this will have the biggest impact on your decision.
In some cases, you may find that your selection is naturally limited and restricted by the size of the room and the space you have available; if you are working with a significantly small bathroom, you could find that your options are limited, and the decision is out of your control.
If you are fortunate enough to have plenty of space, it is a good idea to consider how you use your bathroom sink. Will this be a strictly teeth-brushing and face-washing affair, or will you need to be performing other tasks as well? It may sound obvious, but many homeowners find themselves seriously underestimating the size they will need.
There are two main factors here; the depth of the bowl, and the surrounding space. If you like to keep essentials close to hand, it may be a good idea to pick a sink with plenty of flat storage space.
Those who prefer a minimalist approach, however, may choose a deep, wide bowl with less storage – these also tend to be easier to clean! The size of your sink will also have an impact on the bathroom faucet you choose. As a general rule, the deeper the bowl, the higher the arch of the faucet.
This is important to remember if you have your heart set on a particular style; making the right choice now will help to reduce disappointment down the line.
Keeping Your Bathroom Faucet Clean
Once you have decided which is the best size, there is another aspect to keep in mind: cleanliness.
Bathrooms are areas where things go to be cleaned, but there is, of course, the flip side to this; the fixtures tend to become dirtier far more quickly. With this in mind, it is important that you choose a material which is a good fit for your lifestyle, and the time you have available for cleaning. The best bathroom faucets are those which work for you, not against you.
Materials such as stainless steel tend to be the most durable and low-maintenance, but they also have a certain aesthetic which may not go with your overall theme or design.
Brass, on the other hand, may offer the overall appearance you are searching for but will require regular care and cleaning. Make sure you are fully aware of the best material; this will help to make sure that your faucet and overall bathroom are easy to care for, helping to ensure that they look their very best for years to come.
Durability & Warranty
In a similar vein, durability and warranty are essential parts of your ultimate decision – making a good decision now has the potential to save you money later down the line. Some bathroom faucet models and options may come with a lifetime warranty, and these are well worth the investment.
Faucets are parts of your bathroom which will get a lot of daily use and will be almost constantly under pressure. The handles and turning mechanisms will need to withstand usage several times a day, and the pipes and overall system will be under a lot of strain – especially if you have a larger household which may include children.
In addition, if you are living in a hard water area, you may find yourself faced with unwanted issues such as limescale, which has the potential to cause some serious damage to pipes, plumbing, and ultimately faucets. Here, a lifetime warranty can be a real lifesaver, and potentially save you a lot of money if the system requires an upgrade or overhaul in a few years.
If a lifetime warranty is not an option, it is important to check that the material you use is durable enough to withstand the challenges of daily use. With this in mind, plastic should ideally be avoided at all costs. It is far more likely to break and require regular replacements, degrading at a much faster rate than composite counterparts. This is especially true if you live in a hard water area which degrades the plastic much more rapidly.
Brass is often considered the most durable material, but this does of course usually come with a higher price tag, and so may not be suitable for those on a tight budget, or who may have multiple faucets to replace.
Stainless steel is a classic which is renowned for its durability, but you need to ensure that you are purchasing 304 stainless if you go for this option; this is a higher quality, more likely to withstand the pressures of regular use and water.
What is Your Budget
The final major consideration you will need to make is of course budget, and in some cases, this may overrule all other criteria.
Metal alloy tends to be very affordable, and are a viable alternative to plastic thanks to their slightly increased lifespan. These do come with a few issues, however, and will not offer the same longevity as a steel or brass option.
While metal alloy faucets tend to be chrome or brass plated, the component itself is likely to be made up of ‘Zanak’ – an amalgamation of zinc, copper, magnesium, and aluminum. These may last slightly longer than plastic but are still likely to need regular replacing.
Stainless is a great option for those looking for durable quality on a budget; it tends to be more affordable than brass, but still offers a hard-wearing finish which is built to last. Stainless is designed to be super resistant to corrosion and this makes it an excellent option for use in faucets and plumbing systems. At the very top levels, it may also give brass a serious run for its money.
In terms of quality, brass sits right at the top and is the undisputed king of materials when it comes to creating the best bathroom faucets. Unfortunately, this high quality does come at a cost. If you have room in your budget, however, they can be a very wise investment, and are designed to be tough, sturdy and stand the test of time – this could actually end up saving you cash in the long run.
Best Bathroom Faucet Designs
Once you have established the key points above, it is time to pick your ideal bathroom faucet design.
This can be an exciting but challenging decision, with so many variations to choose from. The right bathroom faucet can make or break the overall appearance, affecting the looks and the practicality of the space.
Each design has its own pros and cons, so it is important to research and, if possible, see the examples in person, to help you make an informed decision which is the best fit for your space.
Classic Design
For a chic, simple and no-fuss finish, the classic design is always a winner. This is a timeless design which will go with any bathroom theme or look and offers a blend of simple functionality with a finish which is designed not to age or tarnish.
These tend to be at the lower end of the budget, and so can be a sensible option if you have multiple faucets to upgrade.
Rustic Design
If you are in the mood for traditional farmhouse chic, or simply prefer that authentic country feel, a rustic design can be a sublime addition to any bathroom.
In some cases, they can act as a real focal point vs a classic design which tends to prioritize function over the finish. This can be the excellent way to inject a certain theme into the room, and there is a range of rustic preferences available.
Modern Design
Fancy a sophisticated, chic and futuristic finish to your bathroom? Why not opt for an ultra-modern faucet design which often incorporates a host of extra features?
These tend to be all about fresh, sharp lines, elegant minimalism, and bold colors which help your faucet to make a serious statement. If your overall bathroom theme is one of an achingly modern aesthetic, it is important to ensure that your faucet fits the bill.
Vintage Design
At the other end of the scale to a modern wonder sits full-blown vintage glamour. As a rule, these tend to be swan-necked beauties in a rich material such as brass and will tend to act as a work of art all by themselves.
You will need an awful lot of bathroom to be able to cope and compliment with a traditional vintage look, but it can lead to a truly inspiring and impressive overall design if your space can handle it!
Waterfall Design
Combine attractive aesthetics with practicality by opting for a glamorous waterfall design. Like modern choices, these end to work well with on-trend, hip finishes, and can be the classic accompaniment to a minimalist vision.
They also add a spa-like serenity to the overall user experience and can offer a fantastic talking point, as well as allowing you to inject a touch of personality and individuality into your design. Even better; they make the water feel super soft and luxurious!
Bathroom Faucet Handles
As well as picking the overall finish for your actual faucet, it is also important to take the time to pick the best handles. In some designs, these are a key part of the overall look and should blend in well with the overriding theme and appearance.
There are also practical aspects to picking the right handles; if you have household members who may have less strength and mobility, you will need a smooth, easy option which allows them full control with less effort.
Similarly, bathrooms which are likely to be used by children will need to have special consideration when picking the best bathroom faucet handles; making the wrong pick could lead to an awful lot of mess!
Single Handle
As the name suggests, single handle faucets have just one operating handle attached, and this is used to control both hot and cold water.
Due to the reduced number of parts required, this tends to be a cheaper choice, and so could be a good option for those who are more budget-conscious. The lack of control is an issue, however, and does tend to make this less popular.
Single handle options usually come attached to a deck plate to cover up any unused handle holes, but this is not always standard, so it is crucial to check before you make your decision.
Two Handle
A two-handle faucet will offer separate handles to control the hot and cold water streams, and so tend to be a popular option where you will be using more of one than the other, or in houses with children who are at risk of scalding.
They allow for greater control of water temperature and flow rate and tend to come in at the lower or mid-range budget. Two-handle faucets usually have individually mounted handles, or handles which are integrated into a deck plate.
It is important to check which category your design will come under before you commit to a purchase.
Cross Handle
Cross handle faucets operate in a similar way to two-handled designs, in that there are two separate handles to help control the hot and cold streams.
Again, this allows for greater control, and the ability to use either hot or cold. On the downside, the water temperature here tend to be extreme, and users will be unable to get warm water out of a single faucet. Unlike typical two handle designs, cross handle faucets will twist to the left or right to control the water flow rate.
They have a very distinctive, recognizable design, and often offer quite a vintage look, so are a popular choice for bathrooms with this theme.
Touchless
Touchless faucets, also known as automatic faucets, are a very popular choice if you don’t want to have to keep turning the faucet on and off.
They use motion-sensing technology to automatically turn the water on and off whenever you require it, and this makes them a super eco-friendly choice – there is no risk of accidentally leaving the water running. They are also a great choice if you have mobility issues or conditions such as arthritis – there is no pressure or need to keep twisting or turning handles.
These do tend to be slightly more expensive, but are well worth the investment!
Bathroom Faucet Mounting Types
Depending on the sink basin and vanity you have, you will also need to pick the best mounting type for your particular faucet. Again, this tends to be dependent on a number of factors, such as your exiting faucet, preferred placement, and overall design and finish.
The type of faucet you pick will also have an impact here; some sit directly in the basin, while others need to be placed in the wall.
Widespread Mounts
A widespread faucet will need three holes in order to be installed, and as a rule, the handles will be set around 8” apart on most generic models.
This is the most common configuration, but it is possible to get your hands on an alternative, adjustable model which can offer distances of up to 16”. Widespread models are excellent for those who have a wide counter space; the spout and handles are both mounted separately instead of using a deck plate, and this offers greater flexibility.
Single Hole
These are one of the most common options available and can be found in the vast majority of bathrooms across the country, As the name suggests, single hole faucets only use one hole, and come in two main types.
The first is a small footprint which works to just cover the single hole, while the second choice offers a wide plate. This can be used to cover any holes which are unused, adding a single, sleek finish to the sink or counter.
It is important to note that the latter choice will technically require two holes, as the spout will need to be installed separately to the handle. In my opinion, single hole faucets are the easiest to install.
Centerset
These are another instantly recognizable option and are identified by observers thanks to their ‘all in one; design. This has two handles situated on a deckplate, and require three holes to be created in the sink or mounting surface.
There will be 4” (from the center of each hole) between handles, making this is a good solution for smaller spaces or compact sinks. The centerset design has long reigned supreme as the king of faucet mounts, and it was not uncommon to see one in each and every bathroom.
Their popularity does seem to have diminished somewhat in recent years and interior design preference, but they look unlikely to ever fade completely.
Vessel
Vessel faucets stand as the tallest of all bathroom faucet options and can be easily identified by their single handle.
By their very nature, they have to be tall enough to accommodate any vessel sinks which are designed to sit on the countertop, rather than the traditional sunken basin. Vessel faucets can be tricky; it important to ensure that the faucet is able to successfully clear the rim and that it achieves this in a way which is visually harmonious.
This can be a difficult balance to get right, but one which looks spectacular if achieved correctly.
Wall Mounted
Wall mounted faucets are increasing in popularity, especially with the ongoing trend for minimalist bathroom designs.
They were previously the preserve of kitchens, but have sneakily found their way into bathroom spaces in recent years, largely thanks to their portability and flexibility. They can act as the ideal counterpart to a vessel or pedestal sink, ensuring that there is plenty of clearance to provide attractiveness and functionality. This type of faucet almost always has two handles, and as a general rule, have 8” fixed centers between these.
Minispread
Minispread faucets can also be known as ‘mini-widespread’, and have previously been described as the lovechild of widespread and center spread faucets!
Like their centerspread counterparts, they offer a 4” space between the century of the handles but reject the typical deck place, instead preferring to flaunt individually mounted handles, in design which mirrors the widespread faucet.
Mini Spreads tend to offer a more modern, contemporary looks, so can be a good choice for anyone looking to bring their bathroom bang up to date.
Bathroom Faucet Brands
It goes without saying that no two faucets are made alike and that equality is not necessarily a factor in the world of bathroom accessories.
Different brands offer their own strengths and weaknesses, and it is important to thoroughly do your research to ensure that you are making the best choice for your needs.
Moen
Moen is a popular choice amongst brand enthusiasts, and it is easy to see why.
This is a name which prides itself on offering the highest possible quality for each and every product, and they have developed a formidable reputation as being amongst the top bathroom faucets.
They are durable, attractive and built to last; a factor which is also reflected in the price. As a rule, Moen faucets do tend to be a little pricier than alternatives, but they have a hidden bonus: they will come with a lifetime warranty as standard. This means that if anything goes wrong during the life of the product, you are covered; in this way, purchasing a Moen faucet is more of an investment.
Kohler
Kohler may not be one of the names which instantly springs to mind when you are shopping for bathroom faucets, but that doesn’t mean that they are not worth checking out.
They have quietly built up a solid presence within the industry, and offer an impressive range of bathroom faucets, a range of lavatory faucet options, plumbing fixtures and more. In addition, the brand has actually been in operation since 1873, so it is pretty safe to assume that they seriously know their stuff!
Their user reviews are also predominantly positive, and they have established themselves as an authority on plumbing and bathroom fixtures right across the globe.
Hansgrohe
Longevity is the key buzzword when it comes to Hansgrohe, and their primary focus is ensuring that each and every one of their products is hardy, sturdy and build to stand the test of time.
This is not necessarily a brand for the fashion-conscious, but there is no denying their commitment to making a product which is able to stand the test of time. If you are looking to upgrade your faucets just once, and not have to worry about it for a decade, then Hansgrohe is very definitely the brand for you.
Even better, they have a reputation for absolutely excellent customer service and support, so you can feel confident that you will be supported and listened to by experts at every step of your journey.
Delta
Delta is a brand with fashion at the forefront and one of their main priorities is ensuring that their products are sleek, attractive, and a distinct addition to upgrade the look of every bathroom, they find themselves in.
With over 106 different models of faucets to choose from, Delta is a brand who really does offer something for everyone. In addition to a good choice of finishes, customers can also customize their spout and handles, choose from a high or standard spout, and tailor each and every detail to ensure a perfect result which blends perfectly with its new environment.
They also tend to be a little cheaper than Moen, allowing you to enjoy high quality for a little less money.
American Standard
When you choose American Standard, you can enjoy a great blend of value for money, with a product designed for long term durability and longevity. One of their major selling points comes in the dizzying array of styles and finishes they offer, allowing homeowners to truly mix and match the product to ensure that the eventual faucet is a precise fit for your own individual bathroom, no matter your preferred style.
American Standard has been operating since 1875, and with this rich history comes a wealth of knowledge and experience about all things plumbing; inside information which the brand has put to excellent use to entice the modern customer.
Pfister
Always determined to stand out from the crowd, Pfister was one of the first brands to offer a total lifetime warranty on their faucets.
Pfister is a brand who started life as a gardening company, and its range and creativity has only skyrocketed since then. With an impressive resume which includes creating faucets for use World War II, offering the first pull out faucet to households across the country, and developing a reputation for excellence. With high-quality manufacturing, great finishes and meticulous attention to detail, it is easy to see where their popularity comes from.
Grohe
High standards are not only desired with Grohe; they are a cornerstone of the brand, and arguably a large part of the secret to their success. Having been in the game for over seven decades, Grohe prides themselves on delivering excellent quality faucets to customers around the globe, having established themselves in Europe.
One of the major benefits of the brand is the versatility and flexibility they offer their customers; there is a huge range of handles, sputs and faucet sets to choose from, and this allows customers to fully embrace their creativity and craft a design which is the best fit for their home and lifestyle.
Glacier Bay
For those on a tight budget, or homeowners looking to upgrade their kitchen faucet for the first time, Glacier Bay is a must-see. They are widely considered an entry-level brand and are owned by House Depot, where they sit proudly as one of the house brands.
Affordability is the key mantra here, and customers may find that they are sacrificing some of the sleek sophistication and attention to detail which can be found in high-end brands. This is a small price to pay, however, when we consider the fantastic quality you can enjoy at an absolute bargain price with Glacier Bay.
Aquasource
Aquasource is often considered a ‘discount brand’ but this is by no means a negative remark on the quality they are able to offer.
Overall, this is a solid, respectable range of faucets which are a perfect option for those looking to redecorate or upgrade on a lower budget. They can be quite difficult to find, and this is in large part due to their composition; the overall result is made up of a series of hardware manufacturers from across the country, and this can mean that they are tricky to repair if something goes wrong; sourcing parts and brands can be very difficult.
At the affordable price, however, this is not too large an issue, and they are perfect for those looking to freshen up their bathroom space without breaking the bank.
Peerless
Peerless is a brand dedicated to quality, and this is something echoes in their lifetime warranty option; customers are entitled to free repairs or replacements for the lifetime of the product.
This gives you a good indication as to the pride the brand take in their quality, and it is important to note that Peerless exist as a ‘budget’ line within the wider Delta brand. This means that they have an excellent reputation to maintain and uphold, and also reassures customers that you will be receiving a high-quality product, at a price which is far more affordable than the higher-end options found within the Delta line.
Bathroom Faucets Finish
The finish of your faucet is perhaps one of the most important decisions to make. This will have a significant impact on the overall look and appearance of the product and will be a major factor in determining how well it fits into the overall vibe of the bathroom.
Some finishes are also more long-lasting than others, and this is an important consideration if your bathroom gets plenty of traffic and use.
Nickel
Fine polished nickel will offer a fantastically smooth and shiny finish which can help leave your faucet looking spotless and fresh even after a few days of neglect.
It has the added bonus of being super easy to clean and maintain and is designed to be durable and long-lasting, standing the test of time without chipping or rubbing away. It is also a flexible material and can appear to change color under different lighting conditions to add a unique air to your bathroom space.
Nickel is also chic and looks great in a wide variety of settings, though getting other accessories to match can be a challenge. On the downside, this tends to be a more expensive option, but can be worth the investment!
Bronze
Dramatic and glamorous, it is easy to see why bold bronze can be such a popular option. Bronze offers a traditional feel and look to the faucet, and can be a great point of focus for the space.
It can be perfect for building the ambiance of the room, and for adding that real sense of luxury. Even better, it helps to hide any pesky fingerprints and water spots which tend to accumulate, and can easily be rubbed over and wiped clean with minimal effort.
As you may expect, bronze tends to come in right at the top of the price range, and is pricier than both polished chrome and brushed nickel.
Chrome
Chrome is without a doubt one of the most popular finishes on the market, and it is easy to see why – it has an awful lot going on in its favor. One of the most inexpensive and affordable materials, it is perfect if you are on a tight budget but still want a smart bathroom, and it can be cheaply and easily matched with other bathroom accessories for a complete look. There are also plenty of choices; the popularity of polished chrome means that it is never out of fashion.
On the downside, this tends to be a material which shows spots, dust, and fingerprints far more readily, so you may need to be prepared to up your cleaning regime!
Brass
If you are going for something seriously impressive and looking to make a real statement with every fixture and fitting you install, brass has to be the top pick.
This is a material which allows you to really nail that authentic vintage look, and has the added advantage of being super durable and long-lasting; brass was designed to last forever, and this makes it a brilliant investment if you are looking to keep the design for the lifespan of the house. Brass is also surprisingly easy to keep clean and neat and can be easily matched with a variety of other accessories to really bring a room together and create a sense of cohesion and unity.
It is also hugely versatile and can work just as well in a traditional homage to a time gone by as a sleek, cutting edge modern extravaganza. On the downside, it is considerably more pricey than the alternatives, though without a doubt worth every penny.
Gold
Embrace your inner glamour by going for gold, and you can feel like true royalty every single time you turn on your taps! Choosing a gold finish allows you to make a serious statement, and this can be a perfect way to add an edge to an otherwise tame color scheme or calm decor.
Brushed gold helps to add a real air of class, elegance, and sophistication, and it also proves to be surprisingly more durable than you may have initially anticipated. Gold can be a material to show up the dust, but it is also super easy to wipe clean, and just a little effort will keep your faucets fabulous. As you may anticipate, however; gold does not come cheap, so make sure you really love it before you commit!
White
White faucets can be an easy way to make a bold statement within your bathroom and offer a sharp, clean and fresh finish which will help you to stand out from the other interiors.
White works perfectly against a bold, colorful backdrop, and has the added bonus of offering a timeless quality which will not age or deteriorate – perfect if you are only planning to upgrade your faucets once!
It also helps to hide any unwanted water spots and fingerprints well, meaning that your bathroom sink will stay looking fresh and clean for longer. One of the only downsides to white is the material; they tend to be made of porcelain, and this can chip or break far more easily than metal alternatives.
Stainless Steel
Simple, durable and fuss-free, it is easy to see why stainless steel is popular. This is a neutral color which will go with any decor, theme or color palette, and this makes it flexible and adaptable which can fit in around your existing environment. This is also a material which tends to be cheaper and more affordable, typically coming in at the lower end of most budgets.
Despite this, it is sturdy, durable which is more than capable of withstanding the challenges and trials of daily use. One of the downsides to stainless is that it can be a little prone to showing up scuffs, dirt, and fingerprints, and may need regular maintenance and polishing to keep it in the best condition.
Black
Be bold and make a statement with a matte black faucet; this is the perfect way to add a touch of the dramatic to your overall look. Black is the perfect accompaniment to a modern finish and can offer a fantastic contrast which really helps to transform your faucet from a simple functional tool into a real work of art.
Classy, elegant and achingly cool, this is the perfect option for those who want a statement piece without looking as though they tried too hard. Even better, the dark color means that fingerprints, marks, and dirt are well hidden, and this is a color which can go with anything. It can be a little more expensive, and despite the growing popularity, still quite tricky to source, though this is likely to change.
Copper
Bold, beautiful and rich, adding copper to your bathroom will help to add an instant feeling of warmth to any space. Copper is unapologetic and easily identifiable, helping to add a sense of real luxury and sophistication, especially when paired with complimenting materials such as marble.
Using copper could also benefit your health, as it offers some fantastic antibacterial properties which allow you to boost your immunity while looking fabulous!
It is also growing in popularity, meaning that you will be able to source bathroom fixtures and fittings to bring together a dramatic overall impression which is sure to be a showstopper. The main issue with copper is that it can be less durable than other materials, and more prone to scratches and unwanted marks.
How Difficult Are Bathroom Faucets To Install?
So you have picked the perfect finish, shape, and design: now it is time to get your new faucet all settled in! There are a number of important considerations to take into account during installation, and we have outlined some of these below.
There are 3 main types of installation to choose from:
New Installation
Installing the faucet as part of a totally new sink installation gives you the greatest freedom and flexibility; the only considerations you really need to make are ensuring total compatibility between the mounting surface (the sink, countertop or wall), the bathroom sink itself, and the faucet. This type is generally pretty easy to install.
If you are mounting the faucet on a sink deck or new counter, purchase the faucet in advance to ensure that you know how many drilled holes will be required – while adaptations can be made, having everything ready to go seriously speeds up the process.
Existing / Replacement Installation
It may just be that you are planning to update your existing bathroom sink with some slick new faucets. If you simply require more of the same, you just need to match the type, size, and the number of existing holes.
Even if you want a radical change, this is still possible; you simply have to consider the number of holes on your mounting surface. If the faucet needs fewer holes, you will need to cover the excess with faucet hole covers, while a greater number of holes will require a little construction.
Some counters and decks will allow you to add extra holes easily and without professional assistance; if this is not the case you will need to seek a plumber.
Wall-mounted
Unless there is an existing installation in place, a wall-mounted faucet can be something of a challenge. Studs in the wall may have to be moved, and an access panel will need to be installed beneath the sink to allow access for essential service and repairs. The location of the bathroom sink must also be considered; if you live in an area prone to freezing winters, avoid placing your faucet on an outside wall, or you risk the supply lines freezing in bad weather!
How To Know What Size To Buy
Sizing is another important aspect of installation, and you will need to consider the layout of the room, as well as the placement of other fittings and any furniture. Make sure that the reach of the faucet is adequate for the sink; there is nothing worse than a basin which looks too high or low, or a faucet which cannot be used effectively.
Personal preference is also a factor here; you will need to consider the height of those using the faucet to ensure that they can reach and wash their hands in comfort. If you plan on washing things in the bathroom sink, you also need to ensure that there is adequate room for this and that you will not be restricted by the placement of the faucet or other obstacles.
What To Do If Your Bathroom Faucet is Dripping
Leaky faucets can be a very unwelcome sight, but the good news is that they are usually easy to fix.
The 4 most common causes for a leaky faucet are:
Problem with the O Ring
The most likely place for dripping to occur is in the O Ring – a small disc which is attached to the stem screw holding the faucet in place. If this ring is loose when you are installing the faucet, you may experience dripping. This can also occur if the O ring is damaged or corroded.
Corroded valve seat
Hopefully not the case if you have installed a whole new sink, another cause of a leaky faucet can be a corroded valve seat. This is the connection between the faucet and the spout in the compression mechanism, If water is allowed to accumulate, sediment may build up, corroding the valve seat and causing corrosion. To avoid this, make sure the seat is cleaned regularly by a professional.
Worn out washer
The most common cause, this is caused by the washer being forced against the valve seat each time the faucet is used. Constant friction causes wear, and the faucet starts to drip. Mending or replacing the washer should solve the issue!
Washer installed incorrectly
Another common error is installing the washer incorrectly or using the wrong size. Make sure the faucet and washers are installed by a professional to help prevent this from happening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What are ADA compliant bathroom faucets?
Answer: ADA bathroom faucets are those which fully comply with the requirements set out by the American Disability Act (ADA). This ensures that every person is able to access a water source in a commercial or public space, regardless of any physical disabilities. To be ADA compliant, the faucet must be able to be activated with less than 5lb of force using a simple twist, turn or pull, and this must be achievable without twisting or spraining your wrist. You should also be able to turn on the faucet with one hand, they should be at the right height and distance, and allow at least 10 seconds of flow before shutting off.
Question: Are commercial bathroom faucets better than residential?
Answer: Choosing to add an industrial or commercial faucet to your bathroom is a bold move, but one which can pay off in terms of longevity and durability. Due to a higher percentage of anticipated traffic, commercial faucets are arguably built to last to a far higher quality than those in residential dwellings, and so can be a perfect pick if you need your faucet to withstand a large amount of use, or last for a longer period.
Question: How long do bathroom faucets last?
Answer: This is a question which varies according to a range of factors, including frequency, type of use, material, environment and care and maintenance. As a general rule, however, you should expect your faucet to last from around 15-20 years.
Question: What is an 8-inch faucet spread?
Answer: As the name suggests, an 8-inch faucet spread is a set up where the two handles are drilled approximately 8” away from each other, measured from the center of the hole.
Question: Do bathroom faucets come with drains?
Answer: The drain assembly is a major factor when picking a new faucet, and too many bathroom faucet reviews neglect this area. Generally, if your faucet is designed to be installed with a bathroom sink, it will come with a drain included as standard. Faucets for showers and tubs tend to omit this, due to the range of combinations and options available.
Question: How much does a plumber charge to replace a bathroom faucet?
Answer: Just like the issue about how long your faucet will last, this is a complex question which depends on the issue at hand, your geographical area, and the overall state of the problem. Expect to pay anything from $45-$100 as a callout fee, with leaky faucets setting you back anything from $125 to $350.
Question: What is the cause of low water pressure in a bathroom faucet?
Answer: Low water pressure is an annoying issue, but usually has one main culprit: a clogged filter. The filter makes sure that you don’t get splashed whenever you use the sink, but it can quickly become clogged with dirt, hair and other debris. It is pretty easy to remove yourself, or a super simple job for a professional!
Final Conclusion
There are many opinions on what the best bathroom faucets are – and I hope this buying guide will make your decision a little easier. Your selection can have a big impact, so it is important to take your time and make sure you have read and analyzed the best bathroom faucet reviews to help you make the right decision!